Editor, On Saturday, July 31, there was a back-to-school cookout held at the community park in Holmestown for the unincorporated areas of District 5 (Holmestown, Longreach and McIntosh).  
I would like to take this time to thank the Friends of Gary Gilliard for their support in making this event possible. Thanks to Commissioner Eddie Walden, County Attorney Kelly Davis, attorney Craig Stafford, businessman Kenny Fussell, businessman Paul Krebs, businessman Chester Barrett, Riceboro Mayor Bill Austin, entrepreneur Robbie Bacon, Riceboro City Councilman Chris Stacy, The Short Cut Saddle Boys Riding Club and my employer, CH2M Hill, for the contributions that helped to make this first-time event a success.  
I want to thank the community and the community leaders (parents, ministers, teachers, county department heads, business owners, elected and appointed officials) for coming out and joining in the fun, food and games. Attendees were served hot dogs and hamburgers. Children enjoyed pony rides, courtesy of The Short Cut Saddle Boys, and, more importantly, we were blessed to be able to pass out school supplies to school-aged children.  
I want to thank the sheriff candidates for coming out to meet and greet the citizens. Thanks to candidate and my ’74 classmate Bobby Ryon for his school supply donations.  
I’m highlighting the fact that this was our inaugural back-to-school event because I hope to turn this into an annual event with the community’s help.
I’m currently working with residents to form a citizens group in this area, so maybe next year they will take the lead in organizing this event and get more folks involved. There’s nothing like bringing a neighborhood together for a good cause.
It’s my hope and prayer that the children have a safe and enjoyable school year!